Thomas, WV – Seven dedicated Nursing Assistant students have spent the past five weeks learning the skills necessary to become Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA). Upon successful completion of the training program next week, each student will take the West Virginia State Certification Exam and start their career in nursing.
Front Row; From Left to Right: Laken Inglese, Katie Sponaugle, Jaimie Goldberg, Patricia Sager
Working Monday through Friday at Cortland Acres, the students took advantage of Cortland Acres’ skilled nursing facility for classroom lecture and instruction as well as conducted hands-on training with residents. The two-part program provides students with the necessary skills to pass State certification and be successful in a long-term care environment.
“You Only Live Once (YOLO) has taken on a whole new meaning for me since taking this training”, explains Jaimie Goldberg of Georgia. “This experience has had a positive impact on my outlook on life and how I want to live. I enjoy the work – it’s fun to interact with the residents, to see them smile, recognize and trust me. It’s cool. Knowing that I’m making a difference in people’s lives every day make it all worthwhile.”
Sarah Leatherman from Hardy County feels much the same way. While taking care of her ninety-nine year old grandmother, visiting nurses and nursing assistants encouraged her to consider the nursing field. “They said I was a natural for patient care”, explains Leatherman. “Even though my family had said the same thing for years, I just needed a non-biased opinion. The class has helped me gain knowledge and experience in the field. I really like the work. It’s given me a purpose and a measure of control in my life. I’ll definitely stay here for a few years and then, who knows. Maybe go on to be an RN and travel. It’s really up to me.”
The students will graduate from the training program with a traditional pinning ceremony in front of family and friends at Cortland Acres on Thursday, September 13 at 6 p.m.
Cortland Acres will hold another CNA class in October. Anyone interested in enrolling should contact Lois Nelson or Kathy Supak at Cortland Acres at (304) 463-4181.
